UAE Concludes Successful Presidency of UN Security Council

The UAE has completed its highly successful presidency of the UN Security Council, marking a significant milestone with the adoption of a groundbreaking resolution on tolerance and international peace. This landmark resolution, co-drafted by the UAE and the United Kingdom, was unanimously approved on June 14th. It is noteworthy as it acknowledges, for the first time, that hate speech, racism, and extremism can be drivers of conflict outbreak, escalation, and recurrence.

Throughout its term, the UAE’s presidency of the Council resulted in a total of 14 agreed-upon outcomes. This included the adoption of seven resolutions, issuance of five press statements, and formulation of two press elements. The Council’s productive deliberations under the UAE’s leadership showcased the nation’s commitment to advancing peace, security, and cooperation on the international stage.

Under the UAE’s second presidency of the 2022-2023 term, three signature events were organized to focus the Council’s attention on critical issues related to the maintenance of global peace and security. These meetings, chaired by esteemed UAE ministers, addressed the values of human fraternity in promoting and sustaining peace, climate change’s impact on peace and security, and the collaboration between the United Nations and the League of Arab States.

The event chaired by Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of State, emphasized the significance of human fraternity as a catalyst for peace-building efforts. The meeting chaired by Mariam Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, shed light on the inseparable link between climate change and global security. Lastly, the gathering chaired by Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar, Minister of State, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the UN and the League of Arab States in addressing regional challenges and maintaining stability.

Sheikh Shakhboot Al Nahyan, Minister of State, Leads UN Security Council Briefing on Somalia

“During the UAE’s presidency of the UN Security Council, Sheikh Shakhboot Al Nahyan, Minister of State, chaired a significant briefing focused on Somalia. The President of Somalia addressed the Council, shedding light on the country’s challenges and progress in achieving peace and stability.

The UN Security Council is constantly confronted with a diverse range of intricate and multifaceted challenges. These challenges include protracted wars and conflicts, the delicate task of post-conflict reconstruction, and the transformative impact of climate change on global communities. As the Council’s president for the month of June, the UAE leveraged its role as a bridge-builder to promote tolerance, foster peaceful coexistence, highlight the nexus between climate change and conflict, and enhance cooperation between the UN and the League of Arab States,” stated Ambassador Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, UAE’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York.

“During our presidency, the UAE and UK co-authored a groundbreaking resolution that addresses hatred, racism, and all forms of extremism. This landmark resolution marks a significant step towards promoting inclusivity and combating the root causes of conflict. Alongside this pivotal resolution, the UN Security Council also renewed crucial peacekeeping mandates, ensuring the ongoing protection and support for affected communities globally.

The adoption of these seven resolutions during our presidency signifies our unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by conflict worldwide. We recognize the profound difference that these resolutions can make in promoting peace, stability, and the protection of human rights.”

During the month of June, the UN Security Council played a crucial role in addressing key global issues by adopting several significant resolutions and issuing press statements. The Council’s actions included renewing the mandates of important missions and sanctions regimes, as well as authorizing drawdown measures in response to specific requests.

Renewals of mission mandates were among the Council’s priorities. Resolutions were adopted to renew the mandates of the UN Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan, the African Union Mission in Somalia, and the UN Disengagement Observer Force. These renewals ensure the continuity of vital peacekeeping and observer missions in regions where their presence is essential for stability and progress.

Additionally, the Council addressed specific situations through targeted resolutions. The 1533 sanctions regime concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo was renewed, underscoring the international community’s commitment to promoting peace and accountability in the region. Furthermore, a resolution was adopted to allow for the inspection of vessels off the coast of Libya, a measure aimed at addressing challenges related to maritime security and arms smuggling.

Responding to the request of the Malian government, the Council authorized a six-month drawdown of forces from the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). This decision reflects the Council’s commitment to aligning peacekeeping efforts with the evolving needs and priorities of host countries.

Throughout the month, the UN Security Council welcomed the contributions of ten civil society briefers who offered valuable insights during Council meetings. In line with the UAE’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, international sign interpretation (ISI) and closed captioning were provided during select meetings.

Notably, the UAE went beyond the traditional approach by providing ISI for the entirety of Council meetings, rather than solely accommodating a specific participant. This step signifies the UAE’s dedication to ensuring that discussions and deliberations are accessible to all, including individuals who rely on sign language interpretation.

Also Read: Enforcement of Non-Compete Clauses for Employees in the UAE